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Simple English definitions for legal terms
major crime
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A quick definition of major crime:
A major crime is a serious offense that can result in imprisonment for more than one year or even death. Examples of major crimes include burglary, arson, rape, and murder. These crimes are also known as felonies. Lesser crimes are called misdemeanors. In the past, a felony also meant that the defendant's lands or goods could be taken away by the Crown. Today, a defendant's prior serious-felony convictions can be used to enhance another criminal charge.
A more thorough explanation:
Major crime refers to serious criminal offenses that are punishable by imprisonment for more than one year or by death. These crimes are also known as felonies. Examples of major crimes include:
- Burglary
- Arson
- Rape
- Murder
These crimes are considered serious because they can cause harm to individuals and society as a whole. For instance, murder can result in the loss of a life, while burglary and arson can cause property damage and financial loss.
It is important to note that major crimes are different from misdemeanors, which are less serious offenses that are punishable by imprisonment for up to one year. Examples of misdemeanors include traffic violations and minor drug offenses.
In some jurisdictions, a defendant's prior major felony convictions can be used to enhance another criminal charge. This means that if a person has been convicted of a major crime in the past, they may face harsher penalties if they are convicted of another major crime.